City receives Federal funding to improve community safety
December 13, 2023
The City of Fort St. John has received just under $925,000 in funding through the Government of Canada’s Building Safer Communities Fund to enhance community safety through crime and violence prevention initiatives.
The Federal Building Safer Communities Fund provides time-limited funding to support community-based projects that address crime and violence prevention, specifically focused on youth. Through initial work with various community partners, including the Fort St. John RCMP, School District 60, Provincial ministries, and local social services organizations, several initiatives will be implemented:
- Parenting Programs, including enhancing the Strengthening Families program and funding a new Connect Parent program.
- Grade 10 Student wraparound program to support school attachment and transition to senior high school.
- Recreation, Arts, and Culture access grants to provide funds and access to higher-risk youth and non-profit organizations.
- Circle of Courage community conference to support community learning and development.
- Mental Health First Aid Training for adults who interact with youth to recognize and support youth struggling with mental health issues.
“Investing in grassroots, community-led efforts is one of the best ways we can address the social conditions that might lead youth and young adults to go down the wrong path, and instead support them in making better choices. We will continue to work in partnership with communities to end gun and gang violence and keep all Canadians safe.”
- The Honourable Harjit S. Sajjan, President of the King’s Privy Council for Canada and Minister of Emergency Preparedness and Minister responsible for the Pacific Economic Development Agency of Canada, on behalf of the Honourable Dominic LeBlanc, Minister of Public Safety, Democratic Institutions and Intergovernmental Affairs
"We are grateful to receive this federal funding, which further strengthens our commitment to community safety. By investing in grassroots, community-led initiatives, we aim to empower our youth, enhance their well-being, and provide them with the support they need to make positive choices. Together, we will build a safer and more resilient community."
- Mayor Lilia Hansen, Fort St. John
The City will work closely with community organizations, School District 60, the RCMP, and other community partners to implement these initiatives. Additional information about these initiatives, programs, and funding availability will be provided over the next several months.
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